There’s plenty to experience. The best things to do in Bangkok often revolve around its legendary landmarks and classic tourist spots. No matter your travel style, the top attractions in Bangkok continue to draw visitors. These sightseeing spots are must-visits at least once, whether or not you plan to return again.
Yaowarat Street
Yaowarat Street is hard to miss if you're heading out of Bangkok town toward
the temples. While not a central tourist attraction, it’s deeply rooted in
Thailand’s heritage and culture. Located in the heart of Bangkok, Chinatown is
anchored along Yaowarat Street. Established in the late 18th century during the
reign of King Rama I, the area is known for its vibrant street food vendors,
traditional shops, and bustling markets.
Many of the businesses here are still owned by Thai-Chinese families, giving
the street its distinct character. Whether you choose to walk along Yaowarat or
simply take a peek from your transport window, the experience is yours to
savour. In fact, the often-crawling traffic allows for a slow, extended glimpse
of this culturally rich street, from beginning to end.
Also known as the Temple of the Golden Buddha, Wat Traimit Wittayaram is renowned for housing the 5.5-ton golden Buddha statue (Phra Phuttha Maha Suwana Patimakon), believed to be the largest of its kind in the world. Dating back to the Sukhothai period (13th–14th century), the solid gold statue was once concealed beneath layers of plaster to protect its true value, and was only rediscovered in the 1950s when the outer covering was accidentally chipped.
At the entrance to the temple compound, the white marble structure stands out
prominently. Inside, there are several other Buddha statues on display. Upon
exiting through the side door, visitors will see a significant temple bell and
a panoramic view of Chinatown and Bangkok’s old quarters. As one of the most
visited Buddhist temples in Thailand, it is often filled with locals offering
prayers and tourists visiting the temple.
Also known as the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, Wat Pho is one of the oldest and largest temples in Bangkok. Inside the grounds, you’ll find golden Buddha statues in different poses, each placed thoughtfully around the temple. Colourful pagodas catch the eye as soon as you enter. The main highlight is the 46-metre-long Reclining Buddha, covered in gold leaf, representing the Buddha’s entry into Nirvana. This is where most visitors gather.
Built in the 19th century, Wat Pho is also known as the birthplace of traditional Thai massage. In 2010, it was recognised by UNESCO as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage list. The temple grounds also include a massage school where Thai massage is still taught and practised, along with a garden.
Wat Benchamabophit, also known as the Marble Temple, was built in the late 19th century during the reign of King Chulalongkorn (Rama V). It is a well-known example of Thai architecture mixed with European design. The main building is made from Italian Carrara marble, which gives the temple its name and elegant look. The roof features traditional Thai details, with curved lines and golden ornaments.
Inside the temple, a Buddha statue sits in the main hall, and the courtyard
around it is lined with Buddha images in different styles. Wat Benchamabophit
is also featured on the back of the Thai five-baht coin.
Madame Tussauds, the world-famous wax museum known for its lifelike figures of celebrities, historical figures, sports stars, and cultural icons, also has a branch in Bangkok. It is located at the Siam Discovery building. Once you reach the correct floor, you can buy your ticket and start taking as many photos as you like. If you’re alone, the staff will offer to take photos for you.
There can be a wait, especially at the popular figures such as world leaders, movie stars, musicians, and athletes. Screens inside the museum show how the wax figures are made. Before exiting, you can also browse and buy some merchandise.
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